Thermally modified wood is an excellent option for porch flooring because it’s more durable and weather-resistant than traditional wood. But just like any other type of wood, you must seal thermally modified wood to protect it from the elements. Sealing your thermally modified porch flooring will help to extend its lifespan and keep it looking its best. There are a few things to have in mind when you decide to seal your thermally modified porch flooring, such as choosing a suitable sealer and allowing enough time for the sealer to dry. But with extra care, you can keep your thermally modified porch flooring looking great for years to come.
Here are a few tips for sealing your thermally modified porch flooring:
Choose a suitable sealer
Thermally modified wood is denser than traditional wood, so it needs a sealer designed explicitly for dense woods. A good option is a penetrating oil sealer, which will penetrate the porous surface of the wood and provide long-lasting protection.
Clean the surface
Before applying the sealer, clean the wood’s surface with a mild soap and water solution. It will help remove any debris that could potentially interfere with the sealer’s ability to penetrate the floor.
Apply the sealer
Once you’ve chosen the suitable sealer and cleaned the surface of your porch floor, you’re ready to apply the sealer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. In general, you will want to use a thin, even coat of sealer on the surface of the wood.
Allow enough time for the sealer to dry
After you’ve applied the sealer your floor, allow it to dry completely before exposing the wood to moisture or sunlight. This can take several hours or a few days, depending on the type of sealer you use and the temperature and humidity levels in your area.
Apply additional coats if necessary
In other cases, it is advisable to apply more than one coat of sealer to your thermally modified porch flooring. If you stay in a high humid area, you may need to apply a second coat of sealer to ensure that your wood is adequately protected.
Re-seal your flooring every few years
Even with proper sealing, your thermally modified flooring will eventually need to be re-sealed. How often you’ll need to re-seal will depend on the type of sealer you use and the amount of traffic your porch gets. You should generally plan on re-sealing your thermally modified wood flooring every two to three years.
Protect your porch from the elements
In addition to sealing your flooring, you can also help to protect it from the elements by providing some type of cover or shelter. If you have a covered porch, that will provide some protection from the sun and rain. You can also purchase a tarp or cover to put over your porch when it’s not in use.
These tips on how to seal your thermally modified porch flooring will help you keep your thermally modified porch flooring looking its best for years. With sufficient care, you can enjoy your porch for many years. If you are looking for high quality and durable porch flooring, choose Sherwood’s Americana porch flooring.
